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The staff at the Arthritis Centers of Texas have compiled these frequently asked questions to help answer some important questions that you may have about arthritis.
For more information or to set up an appointment, please contact us at (214) 580-3630.
The term arthritis refers to more than 100 different diseases. Arthritis usually affects the area around our joints (thus arthr meaning joint and itis meaning inflammation), but it can also affect other body parts.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) typically manifests as chronic inflammation of the lining of the joints. However, since RA is a systemic disease, it can affect other parts of the body in addition to joints.
No, the exact cause of RA is not known. However, we know that an inflammatory process is triggered when a person’s immune system mistakes healthy tissue for an outside invader and attacks it. This is why RA is often referred to as an autoimmune disease.
Much like RA, Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition affecting the joints. OA is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. As the cartilage breaks down, the bones in the joint rub against each other, resulting in pain and loss of movement.
Much like RA, Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition affecting the joints. OA is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. As the cartilage breaks down, the bones in the joint rub against each other, resulting in pain and loss of movement.
RA is a disease triggered by an abnormal immune system response. The body is, in effect, attacking itself. Osteoarthritis is the result of wear and tear on the joints. This is usually the result of aging or other breakdowns of cartilage associated with injury, obesity, heredity, or other risk factors.
Amazingly, one in seven Americans can expect to have arthritis. Although arthritis is typically thought of as an “old person’s disease,” the fact is that arthritis can affect people of any age.
Since there are so many types of arthritis, the list of symptoms is extensive. However, some more common symptoms include painful joints, stiff joints, red or swollen joints, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, low-grade fever, general muscle pain, loss of appetite, and depression.
Except for Gout, there is no hard evidence that diet can prevent or cure arthritis. Since obesity is a risk factor for developing arthritis, it is important to eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise to avoid being overweight.
Immunologists have discovered that stress in one’s life does have a negative impact on the functioning of the immune system. Therefore, it is generally felt that individuals with RA should seek to reduce stress in their lives.
Yes, individuals diagnosed with RA are at increased risk for osteoporosis. Medications used in the treatment of RA can result in significant bone loss. Also, people with RA tend to be less active, a risk factor for developing osteoporosis.